the president called the meeting constructive, but reminded lawmakers there's not much time left. >> we're now at the point where in just four days every americans' tax rates are scheduled to go up by law. >>reporter: senators harry reid and mitch mcconnell returned to the senate floor, pledging to work through the weekend. >> we are engaged in discussions, the majority leader and myself and the white house, in the hopes that we can come forward as early as sunday and have a recommendation. >> we're going to do the best we can for the congresses we have and for the country that's waiting for us to make a decision. >>reporter: democratic and republican leaders have agreed to extend jobless benefits and some tax increases, but the income threshold is not yet clear. the president and senate leaders are expressing optimism that they'll get the job done, but the president has a backup plan just in case. >> if an agreement isn't reached in time between senator reid and senator mcconnell, then i will urge senator reid to bring to the floor a basic package for an up-or-down vote. >>reporter: